Refugee Update-Special Posting

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BURMANET: REFUGEES AT KANCHANBURI AND RATCHABURI PROVINCE
March 19, 1997

Kanchanburi Province

The situation of the refugees at Pu Muang is still uncertain, fighting has
broken out between SLORC forces and the KNLA at the border, directly behind
the camp.  The distance is estimated to be 3-5 kms.  Shelling can be heard
from the camp.  

The noise of shelling was heard by the delegation from the British Embassy
visiting the camp on Monday 17th.

There remains no further news regarding the fate of the adult males in the
camp who were reportedly told they could no longer stay in the camp after
Sunday 16th.  A letter signed by all males (approximately 50) in the camp
has been circulated to concerned parties at the border.

Ratchaburi Province

The fighting mentioned above makes the position of the refugees encamped at
the Htaw Ma Pyo Hto site increasingly untenable.  Border sources say that
the refugees may well now be within range of SLORC heavy weapons and mortars.  

By late yesterday night the KNU administration had agreed to let the
refugees move closer to the borderline and prepare to enter Thailand.  It is
believed that, as of this morning, a small number (600-700) have, in fact,
crossed over without incident.  A member of the Dutch Embassy was said to
have been assured, within the last two days, by the 9th Division in
Kanchanaburi that the refugees at Htaw Ma Pyo Hta site could pass over into
Thailand if, and when, the fighting directly affected the camp area.

As of the time of this release it is not clear whether or not the 9th
Division have agreed to let all the refugees at this place enter Thailand.

An appeal has been made to the relief groups and the international community
to recognize the situation of these refugees and offer any assistance possible.